Endoscopy (Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy)
Gastroscopy
What is a Gastroscopy?
A gastroscopy is a diagnostic procedure where a thin and flexible camera is gently inserted through the mouth, passing down the oesophagus and into the stomach. This procedure does not involve any incisions.
Why might I need a Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is commonly used to investigate symptoms like acid reflux, upper abdominal pain, low iron levels or low blood counts (anaemia).
What is involved in a Gastroscopy?
The procedure requires fasting beforehand and is performed under anesthesia. Most patients can go home the same day.
Dr Scott will discuss the procedure’s specifics with you during the consent process.
What will recovery be like after a Gastroscopy?
Some patients may experience a mild sore throat afterward, but overall, recovery is generally smooth and uneventful.
What are the risks of Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is a very safe procedure though rare complications can occur. If a tear or injury (perforation) in the oesophagus or stomach occurs this may require further treatment. Dr Scott will provide a detailed discussion of the risks during the consent process.
Colonoscopy
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that involves passing a thin and flexible camera through the anus to examine the internal lining of the colon and rectum (the final parts of the digestive system).
No incisions are involved in this procedure.
Why might I need a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is an important component of the national bowel cancer screening program. If your faecal occult blood test (FOBT) — a test checking for blood in the stool — returns a positive result, a colonoscopy is usually recommended to investigate further.
Colonoscopy is also used for ongoing monitoring for problems in high risk patients. This may be indicated if you,
have a family history of bowel cancer
have previously had polyps (small growths in the bowel)
have a history of inflammatory bowel disease
Additionally, colonoscopy is used to investigate new symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, low iron levels or anaemia. Talk to your GP about any of these symptoms and Dr Scott will be happy to help.
What is involved in a Colonoscopy?
Before the procedure it is important to clear the colon to ensure it is optimal for examination. This preparation involves taking medicated drinks the day before which helps cleanse the colon. It’s advised to stay home during this time as you will need to use the bathroom frequently.
The procedure is done under anaesthesia and most patients can return home the same day.
During the procedure samples of any irregular colon can be taken and assessed under the microscope. If polyps are found (small growths on the inside of the colon) these can be removed (polypectomy) and assessed under the microscope. These polyps are usually benign (non-cancerous) but may require follow up with further colonoscopy.
Dr Scott will explain the details of the procedure during the consent process.
Can Haemorrhoids be treated during the procedure?
Yes, haemorrhoids can be treated during a colonoscopy using rubber band ligation.
This involves placing a small rubber band at the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, which reduces its size and bleeding. The bands usually fall off within 5-10 days and are passed in the toilet. Minor bleeding may occur at this time but if bleeding is heavy or persistent, it’s important to seek medical attention.
What will recovery be like after a Colonoscopy?
You may feel bloated and pass more gas than usual after the procedure. If a polypectomy (removal of polyps) was performed you may see a small amount of blood.
What are the risks of Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is generally a safe procedure, but as with any medical procedure, complications can occur.
There is a 1 in 1000 risk of injury (perforation) to the colon and this would require further treatment.
Dr Scott will discuss potential risks in detail during the consent process.
Manning Valley Endoscopy
Dr Scott provides personalised surgical care and endoscopy for patients in the Manning Valley. He operates in Manning Base Hospital (Taree), Mayo Private (Taree) and Forster Private Hospitals.